Zach Parise says he's still rehabbing his injured back

The Minnesota Wild were without Zach Parise in the playoffs because of a back injury.

Players met with media on Wednesday afternoon, their first appearance since being eliminated Sunday. And during that time, Parise was asked how his injury has been progressing since being diagnosed.

Before the playoffs began, it was reported that back surgery was an option for Parise. Instead, he's still continuing to rehab, hoping surgery can be avoided.

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When asked if he needs surgery, Parise told Michael Russo of the Star Tribune "It’s too early to tell, but I’m optimistic that therapy and the rehab is working really well that we’re going to be able to avoid that."

Before the start of the next NHL regular season, the World Cup of Hockey takes place in Toronto this September. Parise was named a captain to the team in March and is confident he'll be healthy enough to play.